CHILDREN'S BOOKS PICKS (GRADES K-5)

From the minds that brought us Triangle and Extra Yarn comes yet another clever picture book that will have kids and adults alike giggling. When Wolf swallows Mouse all seems doomed -- until Mouse meets the ingenious Duck, who makes the best of a gulping situation. Duck is a mastermind of manipulation as he convinces Wolf to swallow other items to make this new home more enjoyable, if a bit uncomfortable for the wolf. Then Wolf finds out just how useful his “food” can be when a hunter comes around. After all, what’s a little indigestion if it will save your life? -Brandi

Every proper bedtime is a ritual, is it not? Lala’s is no exception. This adorable little one can’t get to bed without first wishing every other creature a good night. Sound familiar? Her gentle journey to bed, framed by the changing colors of twilight to starlight enveloping her village, effortlessly soothe. Sweet dreams, peaceful reader. -Claudia

As soon as I read this gorgeous picture book, I knew I had to have a copy. And maybe one for my niece, and another for my nephew. Basically I want all the children I know to drift into the beautiful dream world author Laden and illustrator Castrillon have created. My copy will stay on a shelf next to favorites from my childhood like Madeline and Strega Nona until I have my own little one to delight over the fantastic images and sweet tale of imagination and wonder. Until then, I'll enjoy it on my own! -Camilla

Have you ever wanted a unicorn? Probably. Have you ever thought about the pros and cons of actually having a unicorn? Probably not. Lucky for you, this book exists, and it can tell you all of the reasons why you definitely DO NOT want a unicorn. -Amy

NOT QUITE NARWHALis a precious book about acceptance and finding your identity. Kelp is a unicorn living among narwhals who doesn't always feel like he belongs. When he meets a group of unicorns he is faced with a tough decision: unicorn or narwhal? Dive into this dazzlingly illustrated picture book and allow Kelp to teach you that it is possible to belong in more than one world. I absolutely adore this picture book, and you will too! -Madeline

Availability: Not Available In-Store - Usually Ships from Warehouse in 1-5 Days

Published: Balzer & Bray/Harperteen - March 21st, 2017

This book is wonderful! Browne's illustrations are vibrant and fun. Following Marlo the dog's imaginative journey had me laughing throughout the story. I love that there are few words leaving the readers imagination free to interpret what is happening. Parents reading this with their kids will find a new adventure every time they open the book. -Eric

The art of British illustrator Helen Oxenbury captivated me decades ago, when my own children were little; her newest project revives my admiration and introduces me to the work of Timothy Knapman, who writes in many genres, including musicals. While the pictures made me look, the song in this book filled me with happiness. A strange sound is coming from deeper in the forest. Little listeners may first be wary and worried as they wander with Alice and Jack among the trees, wondering too, should they turn home? But the delightful ending will help you sing down the evening and send those little listeners smiling into their goodnight dreams. -Claudia

From the Kingdom of Backyard to the Empire of Mom's Home Office to the Kitchen Realm, three brave warriors set out to find worthy battle opponents. This epic tale gives the origins of what will become a lasting friendship and a game that is played by all. Filled with humor for kids and adults alike, this is the perfect story for family, friends, and fellow warriors. -Amanda

I loved the beauty and simplicity of this book's message. I think we all tend to forget the basic need in our lives are the simple things. Children will embrace this book with the exuberant animal illustrations and easy to follow along verses. The hopeful message that life has good and bad days but is wonderful will stay with you long after you read the book the first time. It will be one to pull out again and again to remind you of life's simple pleasures and gifts. -Kay

This is a heartfelt tale about bravery and how its not necessary all the time. Dan Santat's award winning illustrations are always beautiful and fun but in this case they really lend themselves to the story making the words come to life. Choldenko's writing is moving without becoming too sweet or overly sentimental. The combination of their work brings this story to life in way that will be fun to the whole family to read. -Eric

SHARK LADY introduces children to zoologist Eugenie Clark. It's a story of determination as well as one of nature and science. We're taken on a journey through Eugenie's life with vibrant illustrations as she learns about her favorite fish and teaches us about them along the way, dispelling myths about the dangers sharks pose, and informing readers about their great importance to the ocean's ecosystem. -Amy

The first time I read this book, I teared up at the end. The second time, too. Anyone will recognize the frustration felt upon making a mistake and having to decide: give up, or figure out how to keep going from here? The sparse text reads almost like a poem, and the illustrations are kooky and funny, with surprises with every turn of the page. I love that this book celebrates mistakes -- as opportunities, as inspiration, as the secret to stumbling upon even bigger and better ideas. -Emmy

Meet Rot! He likes to eat and play games. When he enters the 'Cutest in the World' contest, he tries to mimic the other animals with adorable ears and jolly spirits, but in the end decides to show his best side. This book is silly and fun and encourages you to be the starch of the show!-Amanda